Thomas: Dream Threads Tie Music and Dance
1st May 2008
The Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center commissioned Dream Threads. The ballet is based on the French fable. "The Magic Thread," about a young boy who finds a magic thread which, when pulled, propels time forward.
Composed for the Patel Conservatory Youth Orchestra and the Orlando Ballet School at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, Dream Threads receives its instrumental premiere with the PCYO and Music Director William W. Wiedrich on the 18th. Choreographer Richard Cook will develop the ballet; the Orlando Ballet School will premiere it with the PCYO in May 2009.
"Dr. William W. Wiedrich, music directory of the PCYO, contacted me years ago about this project," said Thomas. "The idea of composing for the youth orchestra and the pre-professional ballet program was extremely exciting, and I accepted immediately."
In tandem with the commission, Thomas is the Music Alive Composer-in-Residence with the TBPAC. Her residency includes master classes and workshops by Thomas with young composers, and a recording session. "As a teacher, my aim is to always build relationships," observed Thomas. "I love to know what my students are hearing and reading, and what they are thinking because nothing of what we compose or make unfolds in isolation from each other."
The project was made possible through support from the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, The ASCAP Foundation Joseph & Rosalie Meyer Fund, and Music Alive, a residency program of the League of American Orchestras and Meet The Composer. This national program is designed to provide orchestras with resources and tools to support their presentation of new music to the public and build support for new music within their institutions. Funding for Music Alive is provided by The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and The Aaron Copland Fund for Music.Dream Threads (2008) 22'
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